Submersed Plant Invasions and Declines in the Southeastern United States

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Abstract
In the southeastern U.S., distributions of exotic submersed macrophyte species such as hydrilla and Eurasian watermilfoil are expanding, whereas most populations of native submersed macrophytes appear to be stable or declining. In this region, control of nuisance species is the predominant goal of aquatic plant management. Herbicide treatment is the most common control technique used. Water level fluctuations are routinely used to control submersed plants in impoundments. Declines in submersed vegetation were reported from many locations in the region, often coinciding with invasion by exotics. From 1989 through 1991, submersed vegetation declined substantially in much of the region, coincidental with declines in other parts of eastern North America. Improved growing conditions in 1992 and 1993 have led to a partial recovery of aquatic vegetation in most of these areas.

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